The definition of each award category is intended to be very broad, with details determined by each nominating agency. One nomination from the agency should be made for each of the categories. Award recipients will be determined by the Virginia Public Service Reward and Recognition Steering Committee.

The Governor's Award for Agency "Star"

The employees nominated typically have been recognized within the agency because of their contributions to the overall mission, objectives and values of the agency. Because there is such great variation from agency to agency in employee recognition programs, we refer to them generically as "Stars." For instance, an agency may select an "Employee of the Year," as well as employees that best represent each of their agency values.

The Governor's Award for Career Achievement

The employee nominated has a record of consistent achievement over time that has significantly improved the efficiency and effectiveness of Commonwealth operations. For instance you may have an employee who has demonstrated personal achievement and is frequently called upon for advice because of his/her expertise and experience.

The Governor's Award for Community Service and Volunteerism

The employee nominated volunteers on his/her own time in non-profit community activities or serves as the "extra pair of hands" in agency activities. For instance, you may have an employee who helps build a house for Habitat for Humanity or who coordinates your Commonwealth of Virginia Campaign at your agency.

The Governor's Award for Customer Service

The employee nominated consistently provides a level of service to solve the customer's problem; communicates effectively with customers about services, policies and procedures; and treats customers with dignity and respect. For instance, you may have an employee who has received a letter of commendation from the public about customer service, or you may have already identified a specific employee who has rendered outstanding customer service throughout the year.

The Governor's Award for Innovation

The employee nominated produces results such as increased productivity, efficiencies or cost savings through creativity and bright ideas that are implemented within the agency or state government. For instance, you may have an employee who has been recognized by the Employee Suggestion Program or who had a great idea for the productivity savings initiative.

The Governor's Award for Teamwork

The group of employees nominated consistently exhibit the qualities that make teamwork essential to an agency’s success, including coordination of efforts to produce quality service or innovative results. As an example, an appropriate nomination would be a team that achieved substantial savings through re-engineering processes within an agency.

The Governor's Award for Workplace Safety and Health

The employee nominated leads the way in promoting a safe and healthy work environment, suggests workplace improvements, and promotes and supports the importance of a safe and healthy work environment. For instance, you may have an employee who consistently suggests workplace improvements to reduce the risk to other employees or someone who has done particularly well in identifying ways to reduce workers compensation claims in your agency.